If long ingredient lists concern or confuse you, a home remedy may be worth trying. Over-the-counter products can have a ton of ingredients. They also tend to contain preservatives, as well as the active moisturizing products, says Christine Poblete-Lopez, MD, the residency program director and vice chair of the department of dermatology at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.
That’s often the case for water-based products, because bacteria grow easily in these formulas.
But while well intentioned, these preservatives, not to mention additives such as alcohol and fragrances, can contribute to irritation, dry skin, and sometimes allergic reactions.
You may prefer to keep your skin-care routine simple, especially if you have allergies or a sensitive complexion. For example, unlike preservative-laden water-based lotions and creams, oils have a natural base, making them a good choice for dry skin when a skin condition isn’t involved.
Keep in mind, though, that oils and other over-the-counter remedies aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so they aren’t guaranteed to be risk free.
It’s always a good idea to check with a dermatologist before adding any new DIY recipe to your skin-care routine, to be safe.
The Takeaway
There are several potential causes of dry skin, like daily bathing habits or aging, but luckily most dry skin issues don’t require a dermatologist visit. Natural, home remedies using common kitchen ingredients like coconut oil, oatmeal, and aloe vera can often soothe and hydrate dry skin effectively, as well as provide some moisturizing and protecting effects.
